Although further tests will reveal the full extent of the damage, Lugano's participation at the World Cup finals is not thought to be in jeopardy. The timing is nonetheless a worry for Uruguay, who face England, Italy and Costa Rica at the group stage, if they are to have a key player at peak condition in Brazil.

Lugano, the 33-year-old West Bromwich Albion centre-half, who has struggled since his move to the Premier League from Málaga last summer, took a heavy challenge from the Austria striker Marc Janko in the first half and, although he attempted to play on, he was eventually forced off in the 30th minute. He remonstrated with Janko as he left the field.